It's an experiment
From Create Your Own Story
"It's an experiment. I volunterred to help with some rresearch paper on sexual harassment in public."
"Oh. That makes sense." His face brightens up with relief. "Good luck with the research."
"Thanks. Lucas. Can you now please tell me what you're doing here? You're supposed to be studying for your midterms."
"Yeah, well... I... I really don't want to have this conversation right here."
"Well, where then? And when? Were you even going to call me?"
"Well, no. You were supposed to be away on business. You weren't supposed to know I visited. I... I'll be fine, okay? I just... I needed to come home for a week."
"But why?"
"It's been stressful. I'm worried I might fail the semester. And lose the scholarship."
"Oh, Lucas..."
"Listen, I'll be fine. I just needed to see my old friends. And I didn't want to worry you."
"I understand, but... I wish you knew you can always talk to me."
"Don't worry, sis. I know that. But... Will you be angry if I rush off to meet my friends now? They might show up, and... honestly, I don't want them to see you like this. They'd never let me hear the end of it." Lucas bows his head in embarrassment, and I feel like I'd rather be anywhere but here.
"Of course. I... have something I must take care of, anyway."
"Dressed like that?"
"Oh, you goof. I'll change first!"
Lucas smiles awkardly, but I can see he still looks a little troubled by my looks. "I'll keep in touch. Take care of yourself, Sis."
"I will. You take care, too."
I return to the apartment, feeling angry and embarrassed. "It was awful. And Darren, if you didn't help me pay for the house, you'd be dead right now!"
"Sit down. Let's talk about this in a civilized manner, shall we?" I sit down on the sofa, and Darren sits beside me. He eyes me with genuine concern. "What happened?"
"I met a super weird guy in the banana section, and he gave me... this." I take my purse and give Darren the piece of paper.
"That's it?"
"You want his number? He's all yours." Darren laughs, and it only worsens my anger. "What is wrong with you?"
"Hey, calm down! I thought something worse happened. I'd hate myself if you were harmed in any way." Darren stops to look me in the eyes, and leans in... He kisses me, but this kiss is short and comforting, rather than passionate. "I'm glad you passed this test with flying colors."
"Wait... You can't bribe me with a kiss! People leered and frowned at me. But that's not the worst of it. I met my brother."
"And did you handle the situation?"
"I... I have."
"Good job. Then there's nothing to worry about."
"You... what are you doing?
Darren begins to pull at my clothes, obviously intent on undressing me. "If you hate this outfit so much, you should take it off."
I still feel upset. What should I tell Darren?
